Having a nice smile makes a good first impression

I’m excited to announce that I’m done with my initial Invisalign treatment – all 19 aligner trays – just in time for our move to Georgia! I’m wearing a retainer at night, which is comfortable and easy to manage. However, I’m bummed that I will have to continue treatment after my move as two of my bottom teeth are still crooked. Ironically, these were always the teeth that I hated most. (You can see a picture of them here. They’re the crooked teeth on the right side of the picture about midway down the post.)

It’s not because Invisalign didn’t work, because it did. My other teeth are gorgeous, straighter and better aligned than after I got my braces off when I was in high school. It’s just that there refinements need to made, as Dr. Goings told me could happen. This is where the art comes in after the science.

On a positive note, it does give me an opportunity to check out a new Invisalign orthodontist in Georgia before both my kids need to go through treatment. Otherwise, I’m a bit disappointed because I had wanted my smile to be perfect as possible since first impressions are everything and I’ll be meeting many new people soon.

First impressions are everything

“Whether we like it or not, we are often judged by our appearance,” said Dr. Michelle Callahan, renowned TV host, relationship expert, coach, and development psychologist. “The results of this Smile Survey prove what I've always believed, which is the importance of an attractive, healthy smile, whether you're socializing and networking face-to-face or virtually. Your smile has more of an effect on what others perceive about you than you think.”

I know I often notice how nice people’s teeth are and make snap judgments based on how they look. For example, I have a friend (let’s call her Kay) who has awful teeth but a lovely home, fancy car, designer purses and takes her family on expensive vacations. I often wonder why Kay doesn’t put “her money where her mouth is” and get her teeth straightened.

I also have several friends who have gone through conventional braces later in life because they’re ashamed of how crooked their teeth were. They put up with the dorky look of silver bars and wires just to have nice teeth. Too bad they didn’t know about Invisalign and how most people don’t even notice you’re wearing aligners!

The positive affect of a beautiful smile

The perception study found that nearly one-third (29%) of Americans say the first aspect of someone's face they typically notice is his or her teeth, and 24% say this is also the facial aspect that they remember the most after meeting someone. That’s why getting your teeth straightened is an investment in your future or your child’s future. You see, Americans perceive those with straight teeth to be 45% more likely than those with crooked teeth to get a job when competing with someone who has a similar skill set and experience. They are also seen as 58% more likely to be successful, as well as 58% more likely to be wealthy.

Also, when it comes to attracting a possible mate on a dating site, those with straight teeth are seen as 57% more likely than those with crooked teeth to get a date based on their picture alone. Sure it’s superficial, but first impressions lead to first dates. In fact, nearly two in five (38%) Americans would consider not going on a second date with someone who has misaligned teeth!

There’s the trust factor, too. Nearly three in four (73%) Americans would be more likely to trust someone with a nice smile than someone with a good job, outfit, or car.

People also connect more positive descriptions with men and women who have straight teeth than those who have crooked teeth. Those with straight teeth are 21% more likely to be seen as happy, 47% more likely to be viewed as being healthy and 38% more likely to be perceived as smart.

All I want is a nice smile

Finally, the study showed that having an attractive smile is something important to many Americans as nearly three in five (57%) Americans would rather have a nice smile than clear skin. If you’re one of them, check out my how to pick an orthodontist post to find out how Invisalign might be right for you or your child.

__________________ Disclosure: I’m a member of the Invisalign Teen Mom Advisory Board. I’m receiving complimentary treatment from Invisalign, but all opinions and experiences expressed are my own.